Since 1974 the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce has supported the community in recognizing their very best at the Comox Valley Annual Community Awards.
While the award categories have changed over the years, the one thing that has remained constant is the high calibre of nominees and award recipients. Without a doubt the Comox Valley is home to some pretty amazing citizens and businesses! The Chamber's next Annual Awards Gala is being planned for Jan. 26, 2013, at the Florence Filberg Centre but, in order for the event to happen, nominations are required now.
"We are excited to announce that nominations for the 2012 awards are open now through 4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013," says Chamber president and CEO Dianne Hawkins. "We welcome the public to submit nominations for businesses and individuals for the 12 different awards categories. Nominees (or their businesses) do not have to be Chamber members in order to qualify for awards. One change this year, however, is that self nominations will not be permitted."
Two new awards are being introduced this year:
The Youth Leadership Award (sponsored by WCG International) recognizes an individual under the age of 25, or a group or organization whose key members are under the age of 25, that has made significant contributions to the community. The award will honour strong leadership, ingenuity and initiative in any endeavour(s) that improve the lives of others, the community as a whole, or the environment.
The Young Entrepreneur Award is in recognition of an individual or team, who has achieved remarkable business success before the age of 35. The type, size or age of business is not limited, however, the criteria includes being involved with the community, a willingness to employ locally, and a demonstration of commitment to the Comox Valley.
The other 10 awards categories (and the respective sponsors confirmed to date) are: Agricultural Business of the Year - MNP LLP; Business of the Year - Thrifty Foods;
Citizen of the Year, Canadian Tire; Customer Service (sponsor not confirmed); Environmental Leadership - Comox Strathcona Waste Management; Heritage Recognition - Vancouver Island Insurance Centres; New Business of the Year - Presley & Partners; President's Merit Award - North Island College: Professional Merit - First Insurance; and Small Business of the Year - Glacierview Financial.
The theme for the gala awards event on Jan. 26 is A Royal Affair. The evening will include a champagne reception sponsored by the Kingfisher Resort and Spa, a four-course gourmet meal, an Academy Award-style film presentation, plus live and silent auctions, with 50 per cent of the auction proceeds going to charity. Tickets are now available.
2012 Community Award nomination forms are available www.ComoxValleyChamber.com or you may drop into their offices at 2040 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay to pick up printed copies. FMI call 250-334-3234.
– Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce